Presenting a new perspective on Wu Guanzhong, Learning from the Master invites you to join us to examine Wu's practice as an art educator from 1976 to 1985 through the dialogues and aspirations shared by him and his students.

Wu Guanzhong (1919 – 2010) remains a leading figure in modern Chinese art history. He devoted his life to the integration of Chinese and Western art, continuously exploring modern art within a native and cultural context. He is also acclaimed as an art educator, who selflessly shared his artistic philosophies and experiences with students at leading educational institutions in China over a teaching career that spanned more than 40 years.

During the critical period of 1976 to 1985, the master and the students he taught gave rise to a valuable, often overlooked, episode in the historical narrative of Chinese modern art as they pursue formal aesthetics and artistic autonomy on their creative journey. 

This exhibition marks new chapter in the Gallery's ongoing and devoted research on Wu's life and art practice. Building on the foundation of artworks donated by the artist and his family, the Gallery has been investigating Wu's artistic practice since 2015, within the wider contexts of ink aesthetics and modern Asian art.

WORDS FROM OUR TEACHER

Beyond his career as an artist, Wu Guanzhong was also a dedicated art educator who kept his students close to his heart.

These pieces of writing between Wu and his students have been translated from Mandarin to English. They not only provide insights into Wu's pedagogy and the relationships he developed with his students, but also a glimpse of the artist's character.